Rifts-Master Edition

The Master Edition of Rifts is an unofficial version of the Rifts RPG using a conversion of the core of the Iron Colossus rules systems. This is a conversion reference and not an entire system.

Some key differences to the Rifts RPG are as follows:

• Character attributes and skills are of a format similar to D20 Dungeons & Dragons game mechanics.

• The action economy of the Rifts RPG rules is not used. Characters are typically able to dodge and parry without using up attacks. Bonuses to dodge and parry are baked into the bonuses recorded on the character sheets.

• Combat rounds are ten seconds long, instead of 15. The round is divided into 10 segments of 1 second each.

• Movement occurs on every segment for each character, whether or not they are able to attack on a given segment. The distance moved per segment is based on the character's Speed attribute and is found on the appropriate table and recorded on the character sheet.

• Attackers roll a d20 to attack while Defenders roll a d20 for defense. The attack roll must exceed the defense roll to score damage.

• Damage is rolled for successful attacks but reduced by Damage Reduction for armor or other defenses.

• While damage done to armor is tracked, armor lasts much longer than in the standard rules. In the Master Edition, it is not required that an enemy completely destroy armor to be able to affect the wearer. A wearer might be unconscious or slain before their armor is completely wrecked. It is entirely possible for a character to use the same suit of armor throughout their adventuring career with the proper care and luck.

• Megadamage and normal structural damage rules are at a different conversion rate when compared to the original rules. Conversion values are based on the armor type, structure type, weapon type, and strength type. In the Master Edition, SDC armor and weapon types have more of a useful value than in the stardard rules. While using MDC equipment is more ideal, characters and encounters can survive using SDC equipment. 100:1 MDC to SDC conversion does not apply in the Master Edition. Most conversions are 2:1 and 3:1, with some exceptions. The conversion values can be found on appropriate tables. All conversions are made prior to play and thus share the same mechanics and ratio of 1:1 during play.

• Saving Throw target numbers are not at the fixed, static values found in the standard rules. Such numbers are quickly generated by random rolls and modified by an amount based on the saving throw values in the standard rules and other appropriate factors.